Our Opinion: Lots to enjoy in Springfield this weekend

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The State Journal-Register

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Posted Jun. 6, 2014 at 1:11 AM

Posted Jun. 6, 2014 at 1:11 AM

Springfield’s robust summer festival schedule gets into full swing this weekend with the final days of the carillon festival in Washington Park and the downtown SOHO music festival, now in its 10th year.

Both of these popular events help make Springfield a better place and are worthy of attendance.

As impressive as the events themselves was the community’s response to a call from the Springfield Park District for donations to ensure it could put on the carillon festival’s fireworks show, which delights thousands during the annual event. The park district decided last year to stop funding the display because of budget concerns and instead make it a sponsored event.

This year, local residents, the Rees Carillon Society and the Springfield Parks Foundation stepped up with about $5,700 to fund the show.

“One of the many things I love about Springfield is that when we put a call out, our people respond,” Springfield Park Board President Leslie Sgro told The State Journal-Register. “We are expecting a great show this year thanks to these generous donations.”

The fireworks will take place about 9:15 tonight. The rain date is Saturday night.

Downtown, about 40 bands will take the stage for the SOHO Music Festival, proceeds from which go to 10 local charities. SOHO organizers hope to raise $20,000 to divide among the groups, all of which could use a fundraising boost as they carry out their individual missions to support the Springfield community.

The two-day festival begins at 5 this evening and will feature three stages, children’s activities, a 10K race, a disc-golf tournament and after-parties at downtown bars each night. Admission to the festival itself is $5.